Refuges on the Radio

Your local radio station may soon feature the sounds and stories of national wildlife refuges through a series of four 60-second public service announcements (PSAs) delivered to 3,500 radio stations nationwide.

Every winter, thousands of sandhill cranes fly to Merced National Wildlife Refuge in California’s San Joaquin Valley.

Sounds of baby bird calls, splashing water

Spokesperson: Thousands of acres of wetlands provide these cranes with a natural source for food and shelter. Maintaining these wetlands is crucial for their survival.

Sounds of water splashing, wings flapping, birds calling

Spokesperson: Watching these majestic cranes, with up to seven-foot wingspans, is one of nature’s most breathtaking sights. If you’re not already into bird watching, you will be after you see these big birds.

Sounds of whistling wind, wings flapping

Spokesperson: And sandhill crane fossils have been discovered dating back over 2 ½ million years, making it one of nature’s oldest birds.

Sounds of people sweeping sand, using pick axes

Spokesperson: Every Wildlife Refuge is full of incredible experiences. With over 500 Refuges across the country, you don’t have to go far to make a special connection with nature. Learn more at fws.gov/refuges. That’s fws.gov/refuges.

In announcing the new public service campaign, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar urged Americans to connect with nature and visit a National Wildlife Refuge. "Americans can take pride in the tremendous beauty and diversity of refuge lands dedicated to the protection of wildlife habitat," Salazar said. "By visiting these places and encouraging their children to forge a connection with nature, they can help ensure vital wildlife conservation efforts will continue for generations to come."